A few summers ago, I spent some time in Monroeville, Alabama—the hometown of Harper Lee and Truman Capote. Both authors drew inspiration from this small Southern town, weaving its people and places into their famous works.

The Courthouse

Harper Lee rarely spoke about To Kill a Mockingbird, but her early interviews offer a glimpse into the world that shaped it. The Old Courthouse Museum exhibit brings Harper Lee’s words to life with childhood photos and memorabilia. It offers a glimpse into how Monroeville became the heart of her story.

The courthouse itself served as the model for the one in the movie, and every year, a stage performance of To Kill a Mockingbird is held inside. Outside, you’ll find small replicas of Atticus Finch’s house, Miss Maudie’s, Miss Dubose’s, and even Boo Radley’s.

The Town

Monroeville embraces its literary legacy, with To Kill a Mockingbird-themed decor scattered throughout town. There’s a cozy coffee shop on the square, and inside the courthouse, a gift shop celebrates both Lee and Capote’s works.

Nearly every street lamp carries a banner that reads, “Write Your Chapter Here.” Inspired by the town’s history, I sat at a courthouse square table in the summer heat. Gazing at the sculpture of Jem, Scout, and Dill, I let Monroeville’s stories spark a chapter of my own.